On the morning of April 15, the Athletes’ Officials Workshop organized by the ODESUR Athletes’ Commission was held. It was composed of Milka Kraljev, Francisco Barretto, Benjamin Hockin, and Inés Remersaro.
The topics covered included the role and actions of the ODESUR Athletes’ Commission. Afterwards, there was a panel on best practices from three athletes’ commissions, as well as a presentation on the programs available through Olympic and Pan American Solidarity.
In addition, working groups were held to develop the description of the athletes’ role and their support, and finally, the election processes for the Athletes’ Commission were presented, to be held during the next South American Games in Santa Fe 2026, scheduled for September of this year
The athlete officials present were: (Argentina) Florencia Ponce de León, Guido Muñez, and Valentina Kogan; (Bolivia) Stefany Coronado; (Brazil) Ketleyn Lima and Poliana Okimoto; (Colombia) Sebastián Uprimny; (Guyana) Chelsea Edghill; (Paraguay) Camila Pirelli; (Peru) Rut Castillo; (Uruguay) Pablo Aprahamian; and (Venezuela) Maribel Pineda.
The athletes, who once represented their respective countries, highlighted the role of Athletes’ Commissions in communication channels with all members of delegations, ensuring athlete safety, providing 24/7 support, informational talks, and motivation
Finally, they emphasized that this opportunity will allow them to have better-prepared athletes and “At Another Level,” as the athlete is the heart of the Games.
